Tuesday, January 22, 2008 Panlilio seeks unity, asks forgiveness By Jun A. Malig
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- Catholic priest-turned-governor Eddie Panlilio has asked the Provincial Board (PB), headed by Vice Governor Joseller "Yeng" Guiao, for unity and cooperation "in response to the clamor" of Pampangueños for a smooth executive-legislative working relationship.
In a letter dated January 14, the Panlilio also asked for the board's forgiveness if ever he offended them with his words or deeds.
He also said he was not keeping any grudge against the lawmakers.
"In response to the clamor of our cabalens, which is also what we have to do, I come to you to promote unity and cooperation between us, officials. I'm asking for your forgiveness, if I said or done (something) that offended you. I also want to let you know that I'm not holding any feeling of resentment against you," Panlilio wrote.
Pampanga PB has already prepared a response to the governor's letter.
The suspended priest and members of the PB have been in disagreement over major and minor issues at the Provincial Capitol, including the provincial budget, the quarry operation, and the celebration of Pampanga day events.
The governor's appointment of provincial administrator Vivian Dabu and legal officer Elissa Velez also became a main point of conflict between the executive and the legislative department.
The sour relationship between Panlilio and the members of the Pampanga Mayors League is also evident in the absence of the governor in gatherings sponsored by the mayors and the latter's absence in the events and programs of the Provincial Government or identified with the priest governor.
